A day in the life of an arboriculturist
With a focus on helping local authorities successfully manage their highway tree stock, we wanted to shine a spotlight on the work of those on the ground carrying out the important work. Phil Hyatt is our new Technical Specialist for Arboriculture and stepped up to help us find out more.
Firstly, in the tree world, the terms ‘arborist’ and ‘arboriculturist’ are commonly used. Can you briefly explain the difference?
An arborist is primarily focused on the practical aspects of tree care and maintenance, while an arboriculturist has a broader scope that includes the scientific study, management, and planning related to trees and woody vegetation.
Why is the arboriculturist an essential role for any local authority? Which functions do they support?
Arboriculturists provide invaluable expertise in tree management, tree health and risk assessment, preservation, and planning, helping local authorities create and maintain sustainable and green communities. Their contributions enhance the environmental, social, and economic value of trees and contribute to the overall well-being of residents.
Can you walk us through a typical day for an arboriculture surveyor? What are their key tasks and priorities?
Planning and Preparation: The day begins with planning and preparing for the site visits. The surveyor reviews the survey schedule, maps, and relevant project details. They gather necessary equipment such as measuring tools, survey forms, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Site Visits: The surveyor travels to various sites to conduct tree surveys. These sites can include parks, woodlands, urban areas, or private properties. The surveyor assesses the health, condition, and characteristics of trees, noting any signs of disease, damage, or potential risks. They may use tools such as increment borers or resistograph drills to assess internal tree health.
Data Collection: During the site visits, the surveyor collects essential data on each tree. This includes recording tree species, size (height and diameter), crown condition, presence of pests or diseases, and any potential structural issues. They also note the tree's location using GPS or precise mapping techniques.
Tree Risk Assessment: One of the key priorities for a surveyor is assessing tree risk. They evaluate the potential hazards posed by trees, such as weak branches, decay, or leaning trunks. The surveyor rates the risk level and recommends appropriate actions, such as pruning, bracing, or tree removal if necessary.
Documentation and Reporting: After the site visits, the surveyor compiles and organises the collected data. They create detailed reports summarising the tree assessments, risk ratings, and recommended actions. The reports may include photographs, maps, and other visual aids to support the findings.
Consultation and Collaboration: The surveyor may spend time consulting with other professionals, such as landscape architects, planners, or engineers. They collaborate to ensure that tree-related considerations are incorporated into project plans, such as development proposals or urban forestry initiatives. They provide expert advice on tree preservation, planting, and management strategies.
Client Communication: The surveyor communicates with clients, which can include local authorities, private landowners, or property management firms. They discuss survey findings, present recommendations, and answer any questions or concerns. Effective communication and client satisfaction are crucial aspects of their role.
Continuing Professional Development: Surveyors prioritise their ongoing professional development. They stay updated on industry trends, new research, and best practices through attending training programmes, conferences, or webinars. This helps them enhance their skills and knowledge in tree management and keeps them informed about the latest developments in arboriculture.
It's important to note that the specific tasks and priorities of a surveyor can vary based on the organisation they work for, the project scope, and the season. However, the overall objective remains the same: to assess, manage, and preserve trees in a way that promotes safety, sustainability, and the well-being of the urban or natural environment.
What would you say the top three tree priorities are at the moment for local authorities?
Tree Planting and Reforestation: The government has set ambitious targets for tree planting to combat climate change and increase woodland cover. Local authorities are actively engaged in tree planting initiatives, including urban tree planting programmes, community tree planting projects, and large-scale reforestation efforts. Planting trees helps carbon sequestration, improve air quality, enhance biodiversity, and create greener and healthier communities.
Tree Maintenance and Management: Ensuring the health and vitality of existing trees is a significant priority for local authorities. Regular tree maintenance, including pruning, disease and pest management, and structural risk assessments, is essential to mitigate potential risks and maintain the safety of trees in public spaces.
Tree Preservation and Protection: Protecting valuable trees and woodlands from inappropriate development and urban expansion is a critical priority for local authorities. They work to enforce tree preservation orders, develop and implement tree protection policies, and assess the impact of proposed development projects on trees and green spaces.
Here at KaarbonTech, our experts work with local authorities across the country to help effectively manage and maintain their tree stocks for the future. Our software solution, Tree SMART, enables the monitoring of tree condition, providing a clear picture of the status of trees and allowing a risk-based approach to be taken in the management of them. For more information about Tree SMART visit our dedicated page, or contact us.